Phillips and Astle in line for ODI debut

Six players from New Zealand A have been added to the Black Caps ODI squad for their upcoming series against India, with Glenn Phillips and Todd Astle in line to make their debut.

Todd Astle, Matt Henry, Henry Nicholls, Colin Munro, Glenn Phillips and George Worker will join the squad following the conclusion of the NZ A tour against India A.

Ish Sodhi and Tom Bruce will travel with the squad for the ODIs, having been named in the Twenty20 squad. Ross Taylor and Worker will return to New Zealand following the conclusion of the ODIs.

Black Caps Selector and NZ A Manager Gavin Larsen said the likes of Todd Astle and Glenn Phillips had earned their spots through both domestic form and their performances for NZ A.

“Todd has been one of the best white-ball players in domestic cricket the last few seasons and he’s backed that up with a strong showing for New Zealand A. Todd brings all round skill to the squad, quality leg spin, is athletic in the field as well as being able to contribute with the bat," said Larsen.

“Glenn has made an immediate effect in domestic cricket and has certainly taken his opportunity over here with NZ A, including an outstanding 140 not out. Glenn is an option for us with the gloves in both Twenty20s and ODIs, so we feel we have our bases covered with the 15 we’ve picked.

“All of the players picked across the squads have some experience in India, but we know we’re playing at six different venues and are going to have to adapt quickly and continually.

“It’s widely accepted that India in their own backyard is the toughest challenge in cricket, so we’ll have to be at our best.”

The Black Caps play two warm-ups before the first ODI in Mumbai on 22 October.